Well-cared-for jewelry can stay with you for years without losing its shine. Whether you wear gold-plated pieces or 925 sterling silver, a few simple habits are all it takes to keep them bright and delay tarnishing.
Why Jewelry Care Makes All the Difference
Gold-plated jewelry is made of a thin layer of gold bonded to a base metal, while 925 sterling silver is a precious metal that naturally oxidizes when exposed to air and moisture. Either way, how you wear, clean and store your jewelry has a direct impact on how long it lasts.
Good Everyday Habits
- Take your jewelry off before showering, swimming in a pool or going in the ocean.
- Avoid contact with perfume, lotion and household cleaners.
- Put your jewelry on last, once your makeup and hair are done.
- Gently wipe each piece with a soft cloth after wearing it.
How to Clean Gold-Plated Jewelry
Most of the time, a soft, dry cloth is all you need. If necessary, clean your jewelry in lukewarm water with a little mild soap (no scrubbing), then rinse and dry it right away. Avoid long soaks and abrasive products that could wear down the gold layer.
How to Clean Sterling Silver Jewelry
To bring back the shine on slightly tarnished silver, a silver polishing cloth works wonders. For a deeper clean, a quick dip in lukewarm water with a few drops of mild soap, followed by careful drying, will restore a beautiful luster.
How to Store Your Jewelry Between Wears
Store each piece separately, ideally in a fabric pouch or a closed jewelry box, away from light and humidity. Don't let your jewelry knock together in the same compartment: this causes tiny scratches that dull its finish over time.
What to Avoid at All Costs
- Pool chlorine, which is very harsh on precious metals.
- Household cleaners containing bleach or ammonia.
- Prolonged contact with salt water.
- Sleeping or working out in your jewelry.
By following these simple habits, your S&F Bijoux pieces will keep their shine season after season. And to add to your collection, our jewelry is shipped with care from Aix-en-Provence, France, with free shipping to the USA.
